Khadijah bint Khuwaylid: The First Believer and Pillar of Islam
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| Khadijah bint Khuwaylid The First Believer and Pillar of Islam |
Early Life and Background
Khadijah bint Khuwaylid was born into a noble and affluent family in Mecca, in the powerful Quraysh tribe. Known for her intelligence, dignity, and business acumen, Khadijah earned the nickname Ameerat-Quraish (Princess of the Quraysh) and Al-Tahira (The Pure One). Despite living in a male-dominated society, she excelled in business, managing her own trade caravans and hiring employees to carry out trade missions on her behalf.Even with her wealth, Khadijah was known for her generosity and compassion towards the poor. She often used her wealth to support those in need, an act of charity that became more prominent during her marriage to the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Her character and virtue made her highly respected among the people of Mecca.
Meeting Muhammad (PBUH) and Marriage
Khadijah first met Muhammad (PBUH) when she hired him to manage a trade caravan to Syria. Impressed by his honesty, reliability, and remarkable character, she sensed that he was unlike any other man. His integrity and trustworthiness earned him the title Al-Amin (The Trustworthy), and Khadijah saw in him qualities that aligned with her own values.When her trade trip proved to be highly profitable due to Muhammad’s (PBUH) careful management, Khadijah became even more impressed. She was a widow who had already turned down numerous suitors, but she saw in Muhammad (PBUH) a partner who shared her sense of purpose, integrity, and spirituality. Breaking with convention, she sent a proposal through a mutual friend, and Muhammad (PBUH) accepted. Despite the age difference—she was forty and he was twenty-five—their marriage was a remarkable example of mutual respect, love, and partnership.
Khadijah’s Role as the First Believer
When Muhammad (PBUH) received his first revelation in the Cave of Hira, he was shaken and overwhelmed. Unsure of what he had experienced, he returned home to Khadijah, seeking comfort and reassurance. True to her character, Khadijah provided him with both. She listened, consoled him, and reassured him that his experience was indeed a sign from Allah. She famously said, “By Allah, Allah will never disgrace you. You keep good relations with your kin, help the poor, serve your guests generously, and assist those who are afflicted by calamities.”Her words of encouragement were instrumental at this critical moment. When the Prophet (PBUH) hesitated, it was Khadijah who stood firmly by his side, affirming his prophethood and dedicating her life to his mission. Khadijah was the very first person to accept Islam, thus earning the honor of being the first believer in the Prophet’s message. She embraced the truth with a firm heart, offering unwavering support during a time when Islam was met with fierce opposition.
Khadijah’s Support During Hardship
The early days of Islam were filled with challenges. The new message of monotheism faced hostility from the Quraysh, who saw it as a threat to their traditional way of life. Khadijah used her wealth, influence, and resources to protect and support the nascent Muslim community. When the Quraysh imposed an economic and social boycott on the Muslims, Khadijah bore the suffering with patience, using her resources to help those in need, despite the hardships imposed on her and her family.Khadijah’s support was not merely financial; her emotional and spiritual support for the Prophet (PBUH) was invaluable. She provided him with a safe haven, a place of comfort and strength where he could find respite from the relentless hostility outside. Khadijah’s home became a sanctuary for the Prophet (PBUH), a place where he could share his concerns and find encouragement.
Khadijah’s Legacy of Charity and Generosity
Khadijah’s generosity extended far beyond her immediate family. She was known for her acts of charity and compassion, supporting the poor and oppressed. Many early Muslims benefitted from her kindness and financial support, enabling them to endure the social and economic hardships they faced in Mecca.Even after her passing, the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) continued to honor her memory by maintaining relationships with her relatives and friends. He would often mention her kindness, compassion, and unwavering support, saying, “She believed in me when nobody else did; she accepted Islam when people rejected me; and she helped and comforted me when there was no one else to lend me a helping hand.”
Passing of Khadijah and Its Impact on the Prophet (PBUH)
Khadijah passed away in the tenth year of prophethood, just three years before the Hijrah (migration to Medina). Her death was a deeply sorrowful event for the Prophet (PBUH), who loved her dearly and mourned her loss profoundly. That year came to be known as the “Year of Sorrow” (Aam al-Huzn), as the Prophet (PBUH) also lost his beloved uncle and protector, Abu Talib, in the same period. The Prophet (PBUH) missed Khadijah’s companionship, her wisdom, and her unwavering support during these trying times.Khadijah’s passing left a void in the Prophet’s life, and he never forgot her. Even after marrying other women later in his life, he continued to hold Khadijah in a special place in his heart. Aisha (RA), one of the Prophet’s later wives, once asked him if Khadijah was the only woman worthy of his love. He replied, “She believed in me when no one else did.”
Lessons from the Life of Khadijah bint Khuwaylid (RA)
Khadijah’s life offers profound lessons in strength, faith, and generosity. Her character is an example for Muslim women and men alike, as her legacy embodies the highest values of Islam.- Faith and Courage: Khadijah was the first to embrace Islam, demonstrating remarkable courage in the face of widespread opposition. Her faith in Allah and in the Prophet’s mission serves as an example of how a believer should stand firm in their beliefs, even when it is challenging.
- Support for Loved Ones: Khadijah’s role as a supportive spouse highlights the importance of being a source of strength and comfort to one’s partner. Her marriage to the Prophet (PBUH) exemplifies the ideal of mutual respect, trust, and encouragement that should be present in every marriage.
- Generosity and Compassion: Khadijah used her wealth not for personal gain but to support those in need, setting an example of selflessness and charity. Her legacy shows the importance of using one’s resources to benefit others, particularly in the service of faith.
- Endurance and Patience: Khadijah endured hardships with patience and resilience. Her perseverance during the Meccan boycott teaches the value of steadfastness in times of adversity.
Khadijah’s Enduring Legacy
Khadijah bint Khuwaylid’s legacy remains a source of inspiration for Muslims around the world. She was the first believer, the Prophet’s (PBUH) beloved wife, and a woman of unparalleled strength and faith. Her contributions to Islam were not merely a product of her wealth but a reflection of her character, compassion, and dedication. Her life reminds Muslims that faith, courage, and kindness are essential qualities in the pursuit of a meaningful and righteous life.In the Qur’an, Allah sends a message of peace to Khadijah through Angel Jibril, who told the Prophet (PBUH), “Give Khadijah the good news of a palace of pearls in Paradise, where there will be no noise or exhaustion.” This message reflects Allah’s appreciation of Khadijah’s sacrifices and highlights the esteemed position she holds in Islam.
Khadijah’s life remains an enduring reminder of how true faith, dedication, and generosity can impact the lives of others and leave a lasting legacy in the service of Allah.